Is EMDR an Evidenced-Based Treatment for Depression? A Review of the Literature

Studies under way may produce evidence needed to expand the recommendations for using EMDR with more than just PTSD, such as depression.

Article Abstract

“It is not unusual for proponents of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) to claim it can be used to treat many mental health problems. Depression is an illness that affects the lives of millions across the world; the costs are high, economically and socially, and depression can be devastating for the individual. Despite this, depression is not well treated, so a desire to find other treatments is admirable. However, these treatments must be evidence based and although there is some evidence that EMDR may be a promising new approach, it cannot currently be described as an evidenced-based treatment for depression. There are studies under way across Europe that may produce the evidence needed to expand the recommendations for using EMDR with more than just posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Wood, E., & Ricketts, T. (2013). Is EMDR an Evidenced-Based Treatment for Depression? A Review of the Literature. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 7(4), 225–236. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.7.4.225

About the Journal

The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is a peer-reviewed publication devoted to integrative, state-of-the-art papers about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a broadly conceived interdisciplinary journal that stimulates and communicates research and theory about EMDR, and their application to clinical practice. The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is the Official Publication of the EMDR International Association.